Storm of Fate

Chapter 15

Out in the middle of nowhere lies a mansion. Though it is surrounded with countless of trees and thick mist, it is not abandoned. The residence were the lord of the domain and his few loyal servants. Even when one took a step into the mansion, it doesn't feel the least as if the place had been a run downed. Even the food they ate were no short than luxurious. This is one of the many things Tanjiro and his companions noticed as they eat the dinner that they had been served.

"My, this is delicious!" Nezuko exclaimed

"Nom Om Nom Nom!" Inosuke ate in the balance of a ferocious beast and an educated gentleman

"Come! Eat to your hearts content!" Douma cheered from the other end of the long table

"....."

Meanwhile Zenitsu and Tanjiro were eating at a normal pace showing the minimal amount of courtesy needed to maintain their relationship with the lord. They secretly exchanged gazes as if they were communicating with each other unbeknownst to the rest of the group or their host.

"There's clearly something going on here. This whole thing doesn't smell right," Tanjiro thought to himself

As the time passes by, they had some free time to roam around the mansion. Douma had excused himself for having to attend to his duty leaving the group alone. As per Zenitsu's suggestions, they split up for the real purpose they came here for.

"Remember, look for anything that might be connected to Kokushibo or Enmu. No fooling around, got it Inosuke?"

"Why me?" Inosuke is offended by the off comment

"Because Tanjiro already left us you idiot."

When they turned towards where Tanjiro had stood previously, his figure had vanished just as Zenitsu had stated. They figured to let Inosuke accompany Nezuko whilst Zenitsu go around on his own. To their surprise, the eldest daughter of the Kamado had objected to this proposal. In the end, it was Zenitsu who accompanies Nezuko while they let Inosuke do whatever he wants in the meantime.

Nezuko and Zenitsu found themselves in the mansion's private library, a meticulously maintained room filled with rows of books from various genres and origins. They marveled at the collection, noting its pristine condition despite the mansion's remote location.

"Look at all these books, Zenitsu-san," Nezuko whispered in awe.

"Yeah, it's impressive. Douma must have quite a passion for collecting," Zenitsu replied, pulling out a book from a shelf. "And the way everything is kept... almost like a museum."

"Much like the rest of the mansion."

Their conversation was interrupted by the arrival of Caruth, the butler who had initially greeted them. Both Nezuko and Zenitsu visibly relaxed upon seeing him.

"Caruth-san, it's just you. You startled us," Nezuko said with relief.

"My apologies if I startled you, dear guests," Caruth replied with a smile. "I couldn't help but overhear your admiration for our library. The young master takes great pride in his collection and ensures everything is well-maintained."

"That's very diligent of you all," Zenitsu remarked, still slightly uneasy.

"Thank you for the compliment," Caruth nodded graciously. "Feel free to explore the library as much as you like. If you need anything, simply ring the bell on the desk over there."

"Thank you, Caruth-san. We appreciate it," Nezuko replied politely.

As Caruth left the room, Zenitsu's unease resurfaced, evident in his troubled expression. Nezuko noticed and turned to him with concern.